1998 BMW 320 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 414 kg more than 1998 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 320 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 320 | SL |
Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2169 cc | 5500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 382 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 530 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1914 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4582 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1816 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1298 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2560 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |